Ultrasonic cleaners is a device that uses waves of acoustic energy
(a process known as "cavitation") to loosen and break up debris on
instruments. They are a mechanical or automatic cleaner, listed in
the same family as washer-decontaminators, washer-disinfectors, and
washer-sterilizers. Ultrasonic cleaning removes soil by cavitation
and implosion in which waves of acoustic energy are propagated in
aqueous solutions to disrupt the bonds that hold particulate matter
to surfaces. Bacterial contamination
can be present in used ultrasonic cleaning solutions (and other used
detergent solutions) because these solutions generally do not make
antibacterial label claims. Even though ultrasound alone does not
significantly inactivate bacteria, sonication can act
synergistically to increase the cidal efficacy of a disinfectant.
Users of ultrasonic cleaners should be aware that the cleaning fluid
could result in endotoxin contamination of surgical instruments,
which could cause severe inflammatory reactions.See the complete recommendations on sterilizer and
disinfection at www.cdc.gov
“Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare
Facilities, 2008”.

§Autoclave Testing Service, Inc. is one of the first companies
nationwide to offer a Mail-In sterilizer
monitoring service using biological indicators. Serving the
healthcare industry throughout the United States and Canada since
1986, we have thousands of satisfied customers.

§We have a comprehensive Glossary of Terms related to the sterile
processing area (scroll below to view the Glossary). This is
invaluable information, assisting you with this important area of
your facility.

Internal CI’s should be used within
each pouch or package, tray, or container. Class 5
Integrators should be used in conjunction with
physical monitoring and biological indicator
testing for verifying the efficacy of a
sterilization system. (See AAMI ST79:2006)

Recordkeeping is a must for all
sterile processing departments. This ensures
accountability and allows operators to trace
errors to their source. Tips on sterilizer
maintenance and technical advice are included with
each book.